Women’s Economic Empowerment Initiative

More than 190,000 women across the U.S. have participated in our cutting-edge training programs. While AAUW works to fix inequitable systems through our research and advocacy work, this initiative empowers women directly—raising their confidence, building their knowledge, and improving their skills to create pathways to success.

In addition, AAUW is committed to giving more women of color access to salary-negotiation skills, leadership development and mentorship. By teaming up with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs), and Women’s Colleges across the country, we are ensuring diverse young women everywhere have access to our proven tools.

We’ve also built a robust network of corporate partners. We work with a broad range of companies and organizations to advance their equity goals and amplify their efforts to our national community. Together, we are reaching the next generation of diverse industry leaders and changemakers.

“We’re excited about broadening partnerships that strengthen AAUW initiatives toward closing the gender and race pay gap. The impact this training will have on our students and alumni is invaluable.”

— Howard University

• AAUW Start Smart: These workshops are designed to teach college and university students how to negotiate salaries for a new job.
• AAUW Work Smart: This training shows early and mid-career professionals how to negotiate on their own behalf—for fair salaries, better benefits and advancement opportunities.
• AAUW Money Smart: A program aimed at providing women with the personal finance information they need to ensure their own financial security.
• AAUW Empower: Leadership-building events and workshops.

“I was initially apprehensive about asking for more money but knowing the skills I brought to the table helped me realize that I didn’t have to let anyone lowball my salary.” —High Point University Participant

“I did my research and knew what comparable companies offered for similar positions within my geographical area. Because I was prepared, I could confidently talk about my value-add to the team. As a result, I was able to get almost a 9% increase from the company’s initial offer.” —Davidson College Participant

“At first, I was offered an 8% increase over my current salary; however, I presented the employer with a counteroffer, utilizing the techniques I learned during the workshop. By doing so, I was able to negotiate a 15% increase over my current salary. It was not the highest amount I’d hoped for, but it was the maximum the manager was able to offer for the position. I’m very happy with the outcome and looking forward to starting my new job.” —Vanderbilt University participant

“[This workshop] had a big impact in my life and made me feel empowered about my career and my value. Thank you for all you do and for helping other women like me who are navigating our career journey.” —University of Texas San Antonio participant

Interested in partnering with AAUW to bring our programs to your campus? See our current campus partners here and contact us at salary@aauw.org.